Types of meditation

While there are many different categories and subcategories of meditation, the following are some of the best-known ways to meditate.

Mindfulness meditation

Mindfulness meditation is a form of meditation that originated from Buddhist teachings. The practice encourages a sense of awareness and being present in the moment. During mindfulness meditation, paying attention to your thoughts as they pass through your mind without judgment is essential. It can be helpful to focus on an object, intention or mantra while you observe your thoughts and feelings.

Mindfulness meditation can be done almost anywhere but should be limited to a quiet place with few distractions. Close your eyes and focus on your breath to center yourself before you begin. Being aware of your breath will help you increase relaxation and reduce tension in the body.

Transcendental meditation

Transcendental meditation, like mindfulness meditation, is a technique used to encourage a state of relaxed awareness and avoid distractions. However, when practicing transcendental meditation, you are encouraged to repeat and focus on a mantra, a word or a sound used to focus your concentration.

Mantras can range from inner peace to love to “om.” Sit with your eyes closed and continuously repeat your mantra to focus your attention on your transcendental practice.

Loving-kindness meditation

Otherwise known as Metta Meditation, loving-kindness meditation is the practice of cultivating attitudes of love and kindness towards everything. It is intended to evoke warm-hearted feelings towards, first, yourself and, second, others. Finally, direct feelings of love and kindness towards objects or feelings, such as stress or anxiety.

Not only does this practice channel loving-kindness for others, but it will also open your mind to receive love and kindness. Loving-kindness meditation is structured to encourage feelings of compassion and love for yourself and others and can help those struggling with anger, resentment, stress and depression. Breathe deeply and close your eyes to channel these feelings and emotions.

Yoga meditation

Yoga has been practiced since ancient times and has been proven to improve strength and flexibility, calm the mind and improve mental health. Yoga is typically practiced through a series of poses and postures while being guided by your breath.

Controlled breathing exercises encourage you to be present in the moment (mindful) and direct your focus away from all distractions. Meditating through yoga can also reduce pain and increase energy. It is common for yogis to learn from an instructor in a class. However, it can also be learned from the comfort of your home. Many instructional videos can be found online.

Spiritual meditation

Spiritual meditation isn’t for everyone, but for those with faith in a higher power (God, the universe, etc.), this practice may be familiar. Spiritual meditation is similar to prayer because of the silent reflection. It is commonly used to discover a deep connection with your God or the universe and can be done in the peacefulness of your home or a place of worship.

Many people incorporate oils and incense into the practice because of their ties to religion. This practice is most beneficial for individuals seeking spiritual growth.